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benjitek
benjitek's stats
- Review count13
- Helpfulness votes223
- First reviewNovember 15, 2012
- Last reviewMay 29, 2016
- Featured reviews0
- Average rating3.5
- Review comment count8
- Helpfulness votes21
- First review commentNovember 21, 2012
- Last review commentMay 29, 2016
- Featured review comments0
Questions
- Question count0
- Helpfulness votes0
- First questionNone
- Last questionNone
- Featured questions0
- Answer count7
- Helpfulness votes7
- First answerJune 20, 2014
- Last answerOctober 21, 2015
- Featured answers0
- Best answers1
Shield your Apple iPhone 6 Plus against damage with this Insignia™ NS-A65ST2C case, which features TPU material for long-lasting use and dependable protection. Fit construction and a clear design help preserve the sleek look of your device.
Posted by: benjitek
from Seattle, WA
From the description I assumed the clear version of this case would have a textured surface, however, when I went to Best Buy to pick up my order I was disappointed to find it was smooth, the type of case that get's greasy after a little use -- just like the glass screen does.
My Best Buy number: 0530240228
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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+1point
1of 1voted this as helpful.
Control up to 15 entertainment devices with this Logitech Harmony Ultimate 915-000201 remote, which features a color touch screen with swipe and tap support for simple operation. The Harmony Hub lets you control hidden A/V components via IR or Bluetooth.
Posted by: benjitek
from Seattle, WA
Very nice remote, easy to setup and use, however, at that price it should be covered in Gorilla Glass, not plastic. The screen is a bit sensitive, lots of accidental channel changing and feature activations -- have settled on requiring a swipe to unlock it -- would much prefer a hardware button to toggle screen on/off instead of swiping.
Was surprised I didn't need the IR Blasters, somehow this thing is shooting out >very< strong IR signals without them, not sure if it's coming from the hub or the remote itself.
Overall, a great remote but the build quality doesn't match up with the pricing.
My Best Buy number: 530240228
What's great about it: Sleek, nice size, fully functional
What's not so great: Touchscreen is plastic, to sensitive
I would recommend this to a friend!
Ease of Use
5
Durability
3
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+2points
2of 2voted this as helpful.
JBL Flip Speaker: Fill your outdoor space with full-range sound and booming bass with this speaker that features 2 drivers and a bass port. Bluetooth connectivity allows you to wirelessly stream your tunes, audiobooks and podcasts from your enabled cell phone, audio player and other devices.
Posted by: benjitek
from Seattle, WA
Type of Listener:Avid listener
Most Important to Purchase:Sound quality
How Often Used:Daily
After years of trying, I just assumed Bluetooth technology wasn't capable of producing acceptable stereo sound quality. Fortunately, these little wonder-speakers have shot that theory dead. Vocals, treble, bass, it's all good :-)
Not only does music sound great, but spoken audio during video playback is totally in sync with what's playing on my iPad's screen.
I wish there was a battery level indicator, either on the speaker or via app integration with my iOS devices. They sound and work quite well, which is good -- as there isn't a USB port for firmware upgrades. Really wish these came with AirPlay Direct >and< Bluetooth -- if they did, I'd buy 3 more of them.
A true gem, perfectly priced for a special gift -- these little gizmos will surely be next to impossible to find this holiday season.
What's great about it: Sound quality, compact design.
What's not so great: No battery level indicator; firmware not upgradeable; no AirPlay
I would recommend this to a friend!
Sound Quality
5
Ease of Use
5
Features
5
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+7points
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benjitek's Review Comments
JBL Flip Speaker: Fill your outdoor space with full-range sound and booming bass with this speaker that features 2 drivers and a bass port. Bluetooth connectivity allows you to wirelessly stream your tunes, audiobooks and podcasts from your enabled cell phone, audio player and other devices.
Overall
5 out of 5
5 out of 5OMG... Unbelievable!
By benjitek
from Seattle, WA
After years of trying, I just assumed Bluetooth technology wasn't capable of producing acceptable stereo sound quality. Fortunately, these little wonder-speakers have shot that theory dead. Vocals, treble, bass, it's all good :-)
Not only does music sound great, but spoken audio during video playback is totally in sync with what's playing on my iPad's screen.
I wish there was a battery level indicator, either on the speaker or via app integration with my iOS devices. They sound and work quite well, which is good -- as there isn't a USB port for firmware upgrades. Really wish these came with AirPlay Direct >and< Bluetooth -- if they did, I'd buy 3 more of them.
A true gem, perfectly priced for a special gift -- these little gizmos will surely be next to impossible to find this holiday season.
benjitek
Seattle, WA
Initial Review Follow Up...
November 21, 2012
While I wouldn't lower my 5-star rating, thought I should pass along a couple little niggles I've run into after a couple weeks of use.
#1 is battery life. It's not 5 hours. Using the speaker at 30%-50% volume levels, I'm getting just over 3 hours of use before they shut down. Fortunately, they work while plugged in with the A/C adapter. Not sure how they came up with 5 hours -- standby mode?
#2 is the regular need to re-pair the speaker with my iOS devices. The speaker starts skipping, though my iPhone or iPad thinks it's still playing. Happens with my iPad 3 more than with my iPhone 5. Re-pairing the device fixes things, until it happens again. Could be something to do with iOS 6.x & Bluetooth, not sure but something for iOS users to be aware of.
0points
0of 0voted this comment as helpful.
JBL Flip Speaker: Fill your outdoor space with full-range sound and booming bass with this speaker that features 2 drivers and a bass port. Bluetooth connectivity allows you to wirelessly stream your tunes, audiobooks and podcasts from your enabled cell phone, audio player and other devices.
Overall5 out of 5
5 out of 5OMG... Unbelievable!
By benjitek
from Seattle, WA
After years of trying, I just assumed Bluetooth technology wasn't capable of producing acceptable stereo sound quality. Fortunately, these little wonder-speakers have shot that theory dead. Vocals, treble, bass, it's all good :-)
Not only does music sound great, but spoken audio during video playback is totally in sync with what's playing on my iPad's screen.
I wish there was a battery level indicator, either on the speaker or via app integration with my iOS devices. They sound and work quite well, which is good -- as there isn't a USB port for firmware upgrades. Really wish these came with AirPlay Direct >and< Bluetooth -- if they did, I'd buy 3 more of them.
A true gem, perfectly priced for a special gift -- these little gizmos will surely be next to impossible to find this holiday season.
benjitek
Seattle, WA
Follow Up #2
January 5, 2013
The speakers worked fine until recently. Pairing info seems to be lost, and attempts to repair with my iPad 3, iPhones 5 & 4S are unsuccessful. They all 'see' the JBL Flip in pairing mode, but won't pair with it.
Have tried contacting JBL support, the promised 1-day response-time hasn't happened yet, it's been 10 days.
0points
0of 0voted this comment as helpful.
ASUS Q550LF-BBI7T07 Laptop: Gear up for maximum mobile computing with an energy-efficient processor that doesn't short you on power. Speech-recognition software and a backlit keyboard simplify the laptop's overall use.Learn more about the New Windows ›
Overall
4 out of 5
4 out of 5overall I like it
By WildBillEch
from North Dakota
I bought this machine to replace an ASUS that I had problems with and were never resolved by the Geel Squad......At first I really disliked it enough to think about returning it........Windows 8! Still learning it and it's pretty good.....like the larger display, but hate, hate, hate the kit keys.....they are difficult to distinguish the letters.
benjitek
Seattle, WA
The backlit keys...
November 9, 2013
I noticed the same thing -- not sure why they would light keys with a color very close to that of they keys.
Turning the backlighting off completely actually makes the keys more legible than having the light on.
0points
0of 0voted this comment as helpful.
Microsoft Surface Pro 3 Tablet: The new Surface Pro 3 is in a category of its own. With a stunning 12" display in a sleek magnesium frame, Surface Pro 3 has all the power and performance of a laptop in an incredibly lightweight, versatile form. It may just be the ultimate device.
Overall5 out of 5
5 out of 5Amazing Overall
By Abooga
from Lodi, WI
The Surface Pro 3 has been one of the best products Microsoft has released ever. Some of the great things are that its screen is a 2160 by 1440 so that means its more than HD its "Super HD" I guess you could say. The speaker is facing forward like the new HTC One M8 phone because Microsoft realizes that a lot of people use this tablet to watch movies or videos. The USB 3.0 is amazing for transferring things or pluging in a corded mouse. The camera is a 5MP which does shoot a 1080p video, its a big upgrade from the past camera which was a 720p camera. My version has a i7 which is the perfect option for the Surface Pro 3 because if you are going to spend this money on a tablet you want to go all or nothing.
benjitek
Seattle, WA
512GB Model Not Out Until August 2014
June 20, 2014
This version of the SP3 might very well deserve the 5-star review this poster has given it, in August 2014 when it starts shipping ;-)
+14points
17of 20voted this comment as helpful.
Plantronics Voyager Legend Bluetooth Headset: Stay in touch with family, friends and work when you rely on the convenience and comfort of this stylish headset. Its lightweight design and ability to pair with 2 phones at once will keep you up to date on all your incoming calls. Multi-microphones, stainless steel windscreens and moisture protection let you experience clear audio everywhere you go.
Overall4 out of 5
4 out of 5A nice starter headset
By ajuhir
from Burlington, NC
The headset is comfortable for people with smaller ears. It does come with adjustable ear pads. The call quality is great. My only complaint is the headset cannot connect to Siri through voice commands, but otherwise it's a great headset. If this feature could have been added, it would be 5 stars.
benjitek
Seattle, WA
It Does Do Siri...
August 9, 2014
Press 'n hold the 'call' button until you hear the tone, after you release it Siri is activated.
0points
0of 0voted this comment as helpful.
Roku 4 Streaming Media Player: Thousands of entertainment options are at your fingertips with this Roku 4 streaming media player. Access free and subscription channels like Netflix, Hulu, HBO Now and Amazon Prime for instant streaming of your favorite TV shows and movies, and search quickly and easily using the voice search function.
Overall
1 out of 5
1 out of 54K HDMI Out Problems
By Bill000
from PA
I hooked up the Roku 4 to my 70" SHARP LC-70UH30U 4K TV. Screen goes to blank whenever 4K or 4K 10-bit is selected on the Roku.
I tried 5 different 4K certified HDMI cables just to make sure it wasn't a cable problem. Outputting 4K/60 video from my PC to my TV over HDMI cables works great, so I know the problem is the Roku.
Bottom line: Don't purchase this until Roku puts out a firmware update to make its 4K output compatible with more brands of 4K TVs!!
benjitek
Seattle, WA
What did Tech Support Say...?
October 23, 2015
Did you contact them? Could be an issue on your end that they can assist you with...
+1point
3of 5voted this comment as helpful.
These JBL Everest Elite 700 V700NXTBLK headphones feature NXTGen Active Noise Cancelling technology and JBL Pro Audio Sound with 40mm drivers, so you can enjoy rich, enhanced audio for all your favorite music. Bluetooth enables simple wireless syncing.
Overall1 out of 5
1 out of 5All Representatives Are Busy [BLAH BLAH BLAH]
By benjitek
All Representatives Are Busy [BLAH BLAH BLAH]
Let me save you a down-the-rabbit-hole support call ;-)
If you have the newest AppleTV and are looking for a wireless listening experience, the JBL Everest Elite 700 isn’t going to help you with that, not even if you’re willing to pay a surcharge on top of the premium $300 price-tag.
It doesn’t pair with the ATV4, and 60 minutes of music-on-hold when calling the JBL tech-support line isn’t going to change that :-(
When I finally did reach JBL tech support, the rep placed me yet again on hold for another 15 minutes while he checked. Upon his glorious return, he said they’d received other calls and further knowledge on compatibility with the AppleTV was pending. I asked what that meant exactly, the response was “the engineers were ‘in a hurry’ to launch the headphones and might have made mistakes by using a non-standard version of Bluetooth”. As I purchased these during a short $100-off BestBuy holiday flash-sale, I asked if this would at some point be corrected with a firmware update — the answer was “you can try and if it works, then yes”. Hmmm… I started to look for hidden cameras, wondering what prank show I was on ;-)
I’m sure these sound great if your device is compatible with whatever ‘non-standard’ version of Bluetooth these headphones have inside. I actually purchased them exclusively to use with my AppleTV :-(
benjitek
Seattle, WA
December 19, 2015
Yeah... I'm waiting until the last day I can return them to see if the release the firmware update. Their tech support is farmed out to some company in the Philippines and they've never seen the headphones. I have up on calling them, 2 reps swore they'd call back -- said the person who could help was 'on their break'. Why can't Apple just make all consumer tech products ;-)
+1point
1of 1voted this comment as helpful.
Free yourself from the tangle of wires on your morning run with these Jaybird Freedom wireless earbuds. Bluetooth capabilities connect easily to your phone or other compatible device, and the sweat-proof design offers comfortable wear even on long flights. These Jaybird Freedom wireless earbuds feature a metal inline remote for dependable use.
Overall
3 out of 5
3 out of 5Great Sound - Awkward Fit
By benjitek
I also have the Jaybird X2's which I've been pleased with. These new earbuds sound even better, especially using the companion app to tweak the sound.
The fit though is not so great, at least for me. The volume control module is heavy enough to weigh down on the right side, resulting in the need to periodically push the right earbud back in. If I wrap the cord around my ear, the volume control flops around between my ear and head enough to annoy. When worn this way, the cord is a bit stiff so on the left side it continually 'unwraps' and the cord pops out from behind the the ear.
As good as they sound, the issues with fit and comfort will have me returning them -- I'll definitely try again when the 2nd generation of this style comes out, the product's design engineers will surely come out with something more practical.
benjitek
Seattle, WA
Thanks Judd
May 29, 2016
I did try the different configurations -- I'm not loving the big giant volume control box, over the ear or hanging down, less is more. I'm sure these will be perfect for a lot of users, especially helmet-wearers. For now I'll stick with my X2's -- I like that I don't need to configure them for comfort as out-of-the-box, they're perfect for my needs. I do wish they had the bass and volume of the Freedoms though.
0points
0of 0voted this comment as helpful.
benjitek's Questions
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benjitek's Answers
Discover new content and rediscover old favorites with this Roku 3 streaming player, which offers more than 2,000 channels and includes access to Netflix, Hulu Plus, HBO GO and more. A motion-control remote lets you enjoy fun-filled games with ease.
How do you know latest versions of each roku when purchasing
So many to choose from...I definitely want the MOST current
Google is a great resource, so is the Roku website :-)
8 years, 6 months ago
by
benjitek
Seattle, WA
Enjoy your favorite music while you bike or hit the gym with these Jaybird X2 wireless headphones, which feature a Bluetooth interface for wireless streaming and SignalPlus technology for clear, smooth playback. Comply ear tips offer a comfortable fit.
Can you have multiple device connected. ie: laptop playing music but phone so that if it rings you can answer it
Can you have multiple device connected. ie: laptop playing music but phone so that if it rings you can answer it
No, not quite.
What you describe is called 'Bluetooth Multipoint'. The Jaybird X2's let you pair up to 8 devices, but only 1 can be connected at a time.
Multipoint has been available for years, consumers have come to expect it -- especially in a $200 (after tax) headphone that went to market in 2015. The only reason I can think of why Jaybird left it out the X2's would be battery life. Multipoint would considerably reduce the 8-hours they've been rated for.
What you describe is called 'Bluetooth Multipoint'. The Jaybird X2's let you pair up to 8 devices, but only 1 can be connected at a time.
Multipoint has been available for years, consumers have come to expect it -- especially in a $200 (after tax) headphone that went to market in 2015. The only reason I can think of why Jaybird left it out the X2's would be battery life. Multipoint would considerably reduce the 8-hours they've been rated for.
8 years, 6 months ago
by
benjitek
Seattle, WA
Amazon Fire TV (2015 Model): With Amazon Fire TV, you can access thousands of movies and TV shows instantly. Find favorites quickly or access weather and sports updates using the Alexa voice search function. Ultra HD support and a dedicated graphics engine deliver stunning clarity for your favorite entertainment.
Can I stream video content from my laptop? If yes, which formats?
Take a look at Plex -- it'll stream pretty much any format of video to your FireTV. The app is free.
8 years, 6 months ago
by
benjitek
Seattle, WA
Plantronics Voyager Edge Bluetooth Headset: Make crystal-clear calls in any environment with the powerful noise-cancellation features of this Bluetooth headset. Pair it with an HD Voice-enabled smartphone to enjoy full wideband audio support. The convenient and portable charging case will keep you up to speed with all your incoming calls throughout the day.
car charger
On the box it is written that this comes with a car charger , but I did not receive one. I bought this yesterday. Is there supposed to be a car charger or not?
Thanks
Thanks
The one Best Buy sells is a version made just for Best Buy. If you purchase from other online sources, or the Plantronics web site you do get a car charger, however, you don't get the wall adapter that comes with the Best Buy version.
Sounds like yours was the Best Buy version packed in the wrong box, as my box had Best Buy Edition info printed on it and did not list a car charger.
Sounds like yours was the Best Buy version packed in the wrong box, as my box had Best Buy Edition info printed on it and did not list a car charger.
9 years ago
by
benjitek
Seattle, WA
Plantronics Voyager Edge Bluetooth Headset: Make crystal-clear calls in any environment with the powerful noise-cancellation features of this Bluetooth headset. Pair it with an HD Voice-enabled smartphone to enjoy full wideband audio support. The convenient and portable charging case will keep you up to speed with all your incoming calls throughout the day.
Can edge be used as microphone for dragon dictation
Can edge be used as a microphone for dragon dictation?
I depends on the Bluetooth capabilities of your PC. I have a Microsoft Surface Pro 2 and it pairs perfectly with it using both a headphone and headset profile -- so in my case, it would work with Dragon dictation.
9 years, 8 months ago
by
benjitek
Seattle, WA
Plantronics Voyager Legend Bluetooth Headset: Stay in touch with family, friends and work when you rely on the convenience and comfort of this stylish headset. Its lightweight design and ability to pair with 2 phones at once will keep you up to date on all your incoming calls. Multi-microphones, stainless steel windscreens and moisture protection let you experience clear audio everywhere you go.
What about the radiation factor? is the head set made out of plasctic so it does not produce radiation to the brain?
I just Googled the topic, now I kinda wish I hadn't ;-)
I was surprised to find a couple things:
--Bluetooth does emit the same radiation as a cellphone, however, it's at least 100 times less. A couple things to consider though. If you're not on a call and you leave your headset in, you're getting 'pulsed' with radiation -- less than if on a call, but the headset does stay active. Also, if you have your phone in your pocket you're exposing your internal organs in that area while you're zapping your head with the headset. Cellphones emit the same level of radiation regardless of whether you're using a Bluetooth headset for calling. Bluetooth 4.x emits extremely low levels of radiation while in 'standby' compared to earlier Bluetooth versions.
There are limited studies on the health effects of cellphone radiation, and virtually no studies on the health effects of Bluetooth.
I was surprised to find a couple things:
--Bluetooth does emit the same radiation as a cellphone, however, it's at least 100 times less. A couple things to consider though. If you're not on a call and you leave your headset in, you're getting 'pulsed' with radiation -- less than if on a call, but the headset does stay active. Also, if you have your phone in your pocket you're exposing your internal organs in that area while you're zapping your head with the headset. Cellphones emit the same level of radiation regardless of whether you're using a Bluetooth headset for calling. Bluetooth 4.x emits extremely low levels of radiation while in 'standby' compared to earlier Bluetooth versions.
There are limited studies on the health effects of cellphone radiation, and virtually no studies on the health effects of Bluetooth.
9 years, 8 months ago
by
benjitek
Seattle, WA
Samsung UN48H6350AFXZA LED HDTV: With a quad-core processor and built-in Wi-Fi, this Samsung TV allows you to wirelessly stream movies, TV shows and music. The 1080p display and Wide Color Enhancer Plus provides a high-quality picture.
can you change aspect ratio on netflix and dvd movies, does it have vudu and amazon app
Yes, you can change the aspect ratio. It does have Amazon & Vudu, they work quite well. It does not however have the Verizon FIOS app, which I really wish it did ;-)
9 years, 10 months ago
by
benjitek
Seattle, WA